Newz Forum: HOCKEY: Leafs' Belfour pulls out of World Cup

Toronto, ON (Sports Network) - Toronto Maple Leafs goaltender Ed Belfour pulled out of the upcoming World Cup of Hockey tournament because of back problems.

Belfour most likely would have served as the backup for Team Canada to Olympic starter Martin Brodeur of the New Jersey Devils. Roberto Luongo of the Florida Panthers was also named to the team.

The 39-year-old Belfour appeared in 59 games last season for Toronto and posted a 34-19-6 record to go along with a 2.13 goals-against average and 10 shutouts.

I think its good for Eddie not to go. I don't think he would have played anyway. His recurring back problems need as much rest as possible. To go through all the practices and training just to open the door for the players bench is more stress then he needs right now.